Gippsland

Avon Wilderness Drive

Best time: All year (one day)

Spend a day tackling the rugged and spectacular four-wheel drive tracks that skirt the declared wilderness area around the remote headwaters of the Avon River.

The route: Departing from Heyfield, you'll encounter a series of pleasant picnic grounds, including Glenmaggie Weir and Huggetts Crossing, for which you'll need to select low range. The Avon River ford is usually shallow at this point. Climbing the Huggett-Mt Angus four-wheel drive track leads to a ridge before following the southern edge of the Avon Wilderness. If there has been recent heavy rain, carefully check the fords of the Avon River, McColl Creek and Ben Cruachan Creek. Take a detour to the top of Ben Cruachan mountain for a walk to the summit. You'll next trace the western side of the Avon Wilderness and experience the breathtaking views over valleys to the east and west.

Several exciting four-wheel drive tracks descend from this ridge to the main Licola Road. First is Hickey Creek Track with its short walk to McMillans Lookout for stunning views of the Macalister River valley below.

The downwards four-wheel drive track features some short, steep sections requiring care if loose or wet before leading to the bitumen of the Licola Road. Follow the main road to conclude your tour at either Glenmaggie or Cowwarr.